Emile Smith Rowe has been catching the eye on u21 duty with England this month, scoring in both of their games at the European Championships so far.
Speaking after the second win over Israel, Smith Rowe admitted he’s pleased with how things are going with England after a difficult season, and he’ll be focusing on getting back into Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal side next year.
“Definitely a tough season for myself, [with] injuries and stuff,” Smith Rowe said. “And then not quite getting back into the team.
“So yeah, coming here with England has been great for me to get minutes and get some goals. I’m really happy at the moment.
“My main target right now is to get back into the Arsenal team, but first we want to win this tournament.
“Hopefully, I can have a long future and get more England caps. But [I’ve] gotta think of the present, make sure I’m fit for every game and getting as many minutes as I can.”
Smith Rowe’s goal against the Israel u21s was an example of the Arsenal man at his best, as he played a one-touch pass around the corner before running onto the ball and firing it low into the near post from outside the box.
A wonderful #YoungLions team goal – expertly finished by @emilesmithrowe 👏
— England (@England) June 26, 2023
The England u21s now face Germany in their final group game, with top spot already assured.
Arsenal u21 Euros fixtures and results
Wednesday, June 21st
- Georgia 2-0 Portugal – Tavares played 90 minutes for Portugal.
Thursday, June 22nd
- Czech Republic 0-2 England – Smith Rowe played 15 minutes and scored for England.
Saturday, June 24th
- Portugal 1-1 Netherlands – Tavares played 90 minutes for Portugal and was booked.
Sunday, June 25th
- England 2-0 Israel – Smith Rowe played 70 minutes and scored for England.
Tuesday, June 27th
- Portugal 2-1 Belgium – Tavares played 90 minutes for Portugal.
Wednesday, June 28th
- 17:00 – England vs Germany
Times in BST
The quarter-finals take place on July 1st and 2nd, and England will play Portugal on the 2nd at 17:00 BST.
The semi-finals are both on July 5th, and the final is on July 8th.